NY reviewing later bar, restaurant curfew for Syracuse basketball game – syracuse.com
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New York — State officials are reviewing the possibility of a later bar and restaurant curfew for the Syracuse University men’s basketball game on Saturday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said today.
Cuomo was asked about the possibility of a later curfew in Central New York for Saturday’s game during a press conference in New York City.
“We are actively looking at it,” he said. “If we can do it safely, we will.”
SU’s Sweet 16 matchup against Houston in the NCAA Tournament doesn’t tip off until 9:55 p.m. Bars and restaurants are currently required by the state’s Covid-19 rules to close at 11 p.m.
Given the late start time of Saturday’s game, the curfew means businesses will lose out on a potential jump in game day business.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said he and his staff are reviewing the matter, but want to ensure any decision keeps people safe.
READ MORE: Syracuse in the Sweet 16: Another late start means another ‘tough night’ for sports bars
READ MORE: Why does Syracuse keep getting late start times in NCAA tournament? It’s a compliment
Cuomo also congratulated the team on its run in the tournament so far.
Bars and restaurants across the region have pushed the governor to ease the curfew given the team’s success and late start times for some of its tournament games so far. Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon has also supported a later curfew.
Covid-19 has been on the decline in Central New York for weeks, local businesses and officials have noted. Cases and hospitalizations are down and the seven-day average of the positive Covid test rate in the region has been 1% or less since late February.
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